BEIRUT, Oct. 12 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese lawmaker Fouad Makhzumi said on Friday that Lebanon and China should boost their trade and technology ties, local media reported.

"China has been Lebanon's first economic partner for the past three years but trade and technology ties must be strengthened further," Makhzumi was quoted as saying by the National News Agency.

Makhzumi remarks came during a visit by Economic and Commercial Counselor at Chinese Embassy in Lebanon Li Jing to his office in downtown Beirut.

Makhzumi told Li to send his regards and appreciation to the Chinese ambassador and the embassy's staff for their humanitarian assistance offered to refugees.

"This support helps alleviate the burden placed on Lebanon with the flow of a great number of refugees," he said.